There’s something magical about the aroma of Grandma’s Divine Italian Lasagna wafting through the air, filling the kitchen with warmth and love. coquito tiramisu dessert Each layer, rich with flavors, tells a story that wraps around you like a cozy blanket on a chilly evening. For more inspiration, check out this cajun lasagna recipe recipe.
Imagine biting into a slice of cheesy goodness where the pasta is perfectly cooked, the marinara sauce is bursting with flavor, and the cheese is melting in your mouth. This lasagna isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that brings families together and creates memories worth savoring. For more inspiration, check out this cheesy mushroom chicken lasagna recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This lasagna recipe makes preparation straightforward, even for busy weeknights
- With its rich flavors and gooey cheese, it’s bound to impress everyone at your table
- The vibrant layers are not just delicious but also create a feast for the eyes
- Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, this dish is endlessly versatile!
I remember when I first made this lasagna for my family; you could hear a pin drop as everyone took their first bite. cheesecake danish delight The delighted exclamations were music to my ears!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Lasagna Noodles: Opt for no-boil noodles if you want to save time without sacrificing flavor.
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Ground Beef: Use lean beef for a healthier option while keeping all that savory goodness. savory tortilla quiche.
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Marinara Sauce: A good quality sauce elevates this dish; homemade or store-bought works wonders.
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Ricotta Cheese: Creamy ricotta adds richness; consider mixing in some herbs for extra flavor. layered zucchini ricotta melts.
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Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: The star of the show; choose part-skim mozzarella for a balance of taste and health.
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Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan brings depth—don’t skimp on this one!
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Fresh Basil: Adds a pop of freshness to each layer; dried basil can be used in a pinch.
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Eggs: Helps bind the ricotta mixture and adds creaminess throughout.
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Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic enhances the sauce’s aroma—remember, minced garlic is more potent!
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Onion: Sautéed onions bring sweetness and texture to the meat sauce.
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Salt and Pepper: Essential seasoning that enhances all the other flavors beautifully.
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Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for sautéing; it adds richness to your sauce.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop your onion and garlic finely so they meld beautifully into your sauce.
Sauté Meat and Veggies: In a large pan over medium heat, add olive oil, then sauté chopped onions until translucent. Add ground beef and garlic, cooking until browned thoroughly.
Add Marinara Sauce: Pour in your marinara sauce once meat is browned. Let it simmer gently for about 15 minutes so flavors combine wonderfully.
Mix Ricotta Filling: In a separate bowl, combine ricotta cheese with eggs, fresh basil, salt, and pepper until creamy. This layer will be like a hug in every bite!
Create Layers: In a baking dish, start layering: noodles first, followed by meat sauce, then ricotta mixture, and mozzarella cheese. Repeat until you reach the top!
Bake Your Lasagna: Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake another 15 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.
Now you have Grandma’s Divine Italian Lasagna ready to steal the show! Enjoy each slice with family or friends—the smiles are guaranteed!
You Must Know
- This recipe for Grandma’s Divine Italian Lasagna is not just about flavor; it’s a labor of love
- The fragrant layers of pasta, rich sauce, and gooey cheese create a symphony of tastes
- Get ready to impress everyone at your dinner table with this classic dish!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing the sauce first, allowing it to simmer while you cook the pasta. Layer the ingredients as they’re ready to streamline the process and ensure each component shines.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ground beef for turkey or add spinach for a veggie twist. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can give your lasagna an unexpected kick that friends will love.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. For reheating, cover with foil and bake at 350°F until heated through, ensuring the cheese remains melty.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve perfect lasagna, ensure your noodles are cooked al dente; this prevents sogginess later
- Use fresh herbs to elevate flavors dramatically and always let the lasagna rest before slicing for cleaner pieces
Creating Grandma’s Divine Italian Lasagna reminds me of family gatherings where laughter filled the air and no one left hungry. Those special moments nourish both body and soul.
FAQ
Can I use no-boil noodles in Grandma’s Divine Italian Lasagna?
Absolutely! No-boil noodles save time and absorb moisture from the sauce perfectly.
How can I make my lasagna gluten-free?
Opt for gluten-free pasta or zucchini slices as delicious alternatives without sacrificing flavor.
What is the best way to freeze lasagna?
Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil; it lasts up to three months in the freezer.

Grandma’s Divine Italian Lasagna
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- Author: Hellen
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves approximately 8
Description
Indulge in Grandma’s Divine Italian Lasagna, a heartwarming dish that layers rich flavors and gooey cheese. This classic recipe brings families together, creating delightful memories with every bite. Perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, this lasagna is a comforting meal that will impress everyone at your table. Get ready to savor the love wrapped in each delicious layer!
Ingredients
- 9 lasagna noodles (no-boil)
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 15 ounces ricotta cheese
- 3 cups shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil (chopped)
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 medium onion (chopped)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté chopped onion until translucent, then add ground beef and garlic; cook until browned.
- Pour marinara sauce into the pan and let it simmer for about 15 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix ricotta cheese with egg, fresh basil, salt, and pepper until creamy.
- In a baking dish, layer the ingredients: noodles, meat sauce, ricotta mixture, and mozzarella cheese. Repeat until all ingredients are used.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg